What causes brown spots on skin?

Skin can make extra melanin after a pimple, rash, insect bite, shaving irritation, or burn heals. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and can remain after the original problem has settled. Ultraviolet exposure can deepen existing marks and contribute to sun-related pigmentation. Hormonal shifts may also produce patchy facial pigmentation.

The original trigger may be acne, [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/), [Razor Bumps](/conditions/pseudofolliculitis-barbae/), [Perioral Dermatitis](/conditions/perioral-dermatitis/), or [Rosacea](/conditions/rosacea/). The same brown colour can have different causes, so location, onset, surface texture, and change over time are more useful than colour alone.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply as directed when outdoors; hats and shade add protection. Avoid picking, harsh scrubs, and fragranced products that sting. Treating active inflammation helps limit new marks, while a dermatologist can select pigment treatments according to your skin tone and diagnosis. If spots follow [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/), controlling the breakouts matters; [LED Light Therapy](/treatments/laser-and-energy/led-light-therapy/) may be discussed for selected acne plans.

Arrange an assessment for a new or changing brown spot, especially one with uneven colour, an irregular edge, rapid growth, bleeding, crusting, persistent itching, or tenderness. A mark that repeatedly returns in the same place, appears after a medication, or is difficult to distinguish from a mole also merits examination.

Could this be post-inflammatory pigmentation, sun-related change, or another lesion? What features should I photograph and monitor? Which sunscreen and fading treatment are appropriate for my skin, and could any current product be causing irritation?